C4/5 | 32 years post| 47yr old I got my colostomy ~ 20 years post. At the time I got it done I was going in for my 2nd flap surgery. I developed a small wound on my bottom that progressed to a stage 3 quickly. The problem I was having is that I would have an accident, not be thoroughly cleaned on/in the wound, and just spending 1-2 hours every other day on a hard shower chair. These factors make it near impossible to prevent fecal infections in any type of wound. Once that happens the healing process is greatly hampered. The plastic surgeon said that I had to do everything I could to prevent future skin breakdown. He asked me about a colostomy and it took me two months to decide.
Post colostomy: I really wish I'd done this sooner. Granted having a colostomy when younger would have presented very uncomfortable life situations. I tell you though, not having to do bowel programs is a HUGE plus. No more training caregivers how to put suppositories in me, stick their finger up my bum checking to see if I'm done. Not to mention the embarrassing times of having an accident. Some so bad that crap is EVERYWHERE. Being cleaned up like a 1 year old. Completely and totally ashamed that someone has to clean you up. It is so much easier to have a bag and/or wafer change. Travel is more convenient. No need for dragging around a shower chair. Now, few downsides, some more important than others depending on how well you handle things. If you don't keep regular with the right diet, your stool can be too firm and push the right off your belly. Too loose and you'll be changing more often. It has taken me years to figure out on my own the right combination of fiber gummies to take daily to keep it just right. Let's talk gas. Now farts are funny at any age. You must have a sense of humor if you have a colostomy. There is no longer the built in muffler of sitting on a cushioned seat. Make a fart sound with your lips right now. That is what colostomy farts sound like. I carry a hoodie on my lap for two purposes; I can bundle it as a makeshift muffler over my bag on gassy days or wear it when cold. Sex. Have your attention now? Spontaneity will present some new barriers to overcome. Best answer is be open to adaptation regarding your colostomy. If I plan on having fun with my wife or whoever (just kidding hon), then I have a wide ace wrap to put around my belly to cover the belly bag. It has worked so far for those intimate bumps n rubs. Please ask questions, best thing us old quads can do is impart our ?wisdom? Aaron Mann On Wed, Mar 4, 2020 at 3:29 PM Danny Espinoza <da...@immortaldesigns.co> wrote: > > I've got one but as a result of my seat belt cutting in to me and haven't > known anything else. > > -Danny > > -------- Original Message -------- > Subject: [QUAD-L] Colostomy - Yea or Nay? > From: "Nancy Gillen" <nlg52...@gmail.com> > Date: Wed, March 04, 2020 7:17 am > To: <quad-list@eskimo.com> > > > Nancy Gillen <nlg52...@gmail.com> > 9:58 AM (18 minutes ago) > I am seriously thinking of getting a colostomy. If you have a colostomy, > will you share your experiences/opinions. Need input. > > Thanks, > Nan > > > >
